Blue Mountains wild edibles identification workshop
- the art of foraging

You will never look at weeds in the same way again after taking part in this workshop.

Join wild food expert Diego Bonetto on a 2.5 hours stroll in the commons and learn about the most common edible and medicinal plants that surround us all.

This workshop will give insights into the abundance of edibles thriving in the Blue Mountains region. Typical species we will find on the day include dandelion, sowthistle, flatweed, onionweed, wild olives, plantain, dock and more.

Take a walk in the park and discover the abundance of native and non-native edibles to be found underfoot. You will learn local stories of plant resilience woven with cultural trivia, migrant perspectives and native wisdom. We will discuss the role weeds play in repairing and building soil and you will find out how they have been used for food, craft and natural remedies.

Most importantly, you will discover key identification features to safely harvest from your surroundings and enrich your diet with vitamins and minerals.
This workshop has been designed to provide participants with solid skills in plant identification, re-learning old stories while paying respect to public and ancient resources.

Each participant will receive a booklet detailing 16 of the most common wild edibles and a follow-up package with links to online resources for further research.

People can come on the day with samples of weedy plants they have in their garden for possible ID.

WHERE:
Departing from the carpark of the Blue Mountains Organic Community Gardens
10 Victoria St, Katoomba
NSW 2780

WHEN:
Tuesday, 30 May, 10 am to 12:30

COST:
Adult $60
Concession/Child/Underemployed $40
Friends in Forage (two adults) $100
Children up to 5 years old FREE

If you cannot afford the costs please get in contact as we have sponsorships available.

CONTACT DETAILS: Diego info[at]diegobonetto.com

PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE FINALISING YOUR BOOKING.

This is an all-weather event. We will only cancel the outing in case of heavy rain or dangerously gusty winds, via email and phone call 2 days before the date, offering a place on another tour. 

Refund Policy: Due to the nature of the event, we will not issue any refunds for unused tickets sold. Please make sure you are available to attend before you finalise your booking. 

Reschedule Policy: If you need to reschedule we can offer you a Gift Voucher up to four weeks (4) before the event. This voucher can be used against any workshop to the same value and is valid for three years. If less than four weeks’ notice is given you can pass on the ticket to someone else.

CONTACT DETAILS: Diego 0411 293 178 info[at]diegobonetto.com

About your host:

Diego is an edible weeds advocate based in Sydney, most famous for his offering of urban foraging workshops. Building on the knowledge acquired while growing up on a farm in Italy, Diego introduces people to the ever-present food and medicine plants that surround us. He has collaborated with chefs, herbalists, environmentalists, and cultural workers; he is also an artist passionate about using his practice to restore botanical literacy to communities. Diego has been featured by Marie Claire, GQ Australia, Lonely Planet, The Sydney Morning Herald, ABC, and SBS, among other media outlets.
Diego is the author of the best-selling book Eat Weeds.

Check a media review of Diego's works here> and his Gardening Australia segment here> and the appearance on Better Homes and Garden here>

Frequent Asked Questions

Are we going to be harvesting plants?
No, we will only collect a few leaves and flowers here and there and with those, we will discuss ID features. The main aim of the workshop is to empower you with identification skills so that when you go back home you can recognise with confidence some useful plants in your own garden/surroundings.

Are we going to scramble in the wilderness?
No, no bush bashing. We will walk on even ground and sometimes might walk up a grass field, that's it. Bring your walking shoes and you will be fine.

Is this suitable for elderly people or less mobile people?
Yes, this workshop happens along a footpath and is easily accessible. As a general rule, we will not walk far, only about 1 kilometre, and it will take us 2+ hours to do it, so plenty of rest along the way.

Can we try the plants?
Yes, I will offer samples of the plants we talk about for you to try. I believe taste memories are just as important as touch, smell and look.

Can I come with my dog?
Yes, as long as is well behaved with the other guests.

Can I bring the weeds from my garden for you to identify?
Yes please, I love to help to identify treasures growing in your yard!

What if it looks like it’s going to rain on the day?
If there is a chance of rain we will go ahead, just bring an umbrella. Plants are so much happier when is raining and will be the chance for you to look at species when they are at their best. If it is forecasted to rain hard or strong winds I will cancel the workshop and either refund your ticket or move your booking to another date.

What if I change my mind or can no longer attend?
Please make sure you can attend before finalising your booking. I understand that unexpected events happen, so in case you can no longer come, pass on your ticket to a friend. See this as when you buy a concert ticket. If you can no longer go, give a present to someone that would enjoy it.

Can I ask specific questions on the workshop?
Absolutely. I love questions and if you have any burning one just let me know in advance or on the day and I will endeavour to provide you with answers or follow up with links that would help in your quest.

I acknowledge the original custodians of the land where this workshop takes place, the Dharug and Gundungurra people, and pay my respect to elders past, present and future.

May your wisdom thrive and guide us.